Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

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Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese in a delightful blend sure to satisfy your family’s cravings. This recipe is a step-by-step guide, perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend meal. As we dive into the aromatic layers of this casserole, imagine the delicious cheese bubbling away and the comforting scents filling your kitchen. It’s the ultimate choice for a quick yet hearty dinner that will bring smiles all around the table.

This casserole stands out not only for its mouthwatering flavors but also for its simplicity. With minimal prep time and easy-to-find ingredients, it allows you to spend more time with loved ones. Perfect for those who crave a wholesome meal without the fuss, this dish is destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole comes with numerous benefits that make it a perfect choice for anyone seeking convenience and flavor. First and foremost, it features easy prep; the entire dish can come together in under an hour. It’s family-friendly, appealing to kids and adults alike with its cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal without overspending or complicating your grocery list. Lastly, it’s customizable! You can easily adapt the recipe to your family’s preferences, making it a traditional favorite that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

To create this delicious Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, you will need the following ingredients that not only provide satisfying textures but also tantalizing flavors:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef: Rich and flavorful, providing a hearty base.
• 2 cups cooked white rice: Fluffy and filling, adding body to the dish.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, offering that irresistible cheesiness.
• 1 can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup: A creamy element that binds the ingredients.
• 1/2 cup diced onions: Adds a fragrant sweetness.
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional): Brings in a pop of color and crunch.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic richness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate the flavors.
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish: A touch of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Directions for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

1. Prepare the Rice: Cook the white rice according to the package instructions. Once done, set aside to cool slightly.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

3. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole light.

4. Incorporate the Vegetables: If you’re using bell peppers, stir them into the pan with the beef. Add the cream soup, and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until heated through.

5. Combine it All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice and the beef mixture, stirring well until evenly incorporated.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even baking.

7. Cheese it Up: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top, ensuring every bite will be cheesy.

8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden.

More Tips & Tricks for Perfecting your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

To take your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole to the next level, consider a few chef’s secrets. Adding a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper can introduce a subtle spicy kick. For a healthier twist, swap half of the rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice.

If you’re short on time, precooked or leftover rice works wonders. And for those who love a crispy topping, consider mixing some breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkling it on top of the cheese before baking.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This casserole is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. Consider serving it alongside garlic bread or cornbread to complement the flavors. A light, zesty vinaigrette can bring a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is not only delicious but also satisfying. For approximately 1/6 of the dish, you can expect the following nutritional breakdown: about 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It’s a hearty meal, so enjoy it as an occasional indulgence.

Storing Tips & Variations for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

If you find yourself with leftovers (if there are any!), this casserole stores well. Just cover it tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container, where it can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to three months.

When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw overnight and pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also play with the ingredients: add black beans, corn, or different types of cheese to create your unique version.

Conclusion for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting, fulfilling meal that brings everyone together, the Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is calling your name. With its delightful layers of flavor and textures, this dish offers satisfaction in every bite. Don’t wait too long—get cooking today and create your new family favorite!

FAQs

1. Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole ahead of time?

   • Yes! You can prepare it the day before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when you’re ready.

2. What can I substitute for ground beef?

   • Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a leaner option.

3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

   • Absolutely! Just note that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time.

4. Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?

   • Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or soy meat to create a hearty vegetarian dish.

5. How do I know when my casserole is done?

   • The casserole is done when the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly golden, and everything is heated through.

Embrace the comfort and warmth of this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, and get ready to enjoy delicious meals that forge connections around the table!

Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

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A comforting casserole featuring savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Meat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the white rice according to package instructions, then set aside to cool.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, draining any excess fat.
4. If using bell peppers, stir them into the beef mixture. Add the cream soup and let simmer until heated through.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and beef mixture, stirring well.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading evenly.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
8. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding paprika or cayenne pepper. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

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